Secure your land's future with NRCS agricultural easements

Applications open for fiscal year 2025 funding

The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications for the Agricultural Land Easement (ALE) program.

This program is a great opportunity for landowners who want to ensure their land remains in agriculture for future generations. The deadline to apply for 2025 funding is December 31st, 2024.

Funding is available to eligible partners like Indian tribes, state and local governments, and non-governmental organizations with farmland or grassland protection programs.

These partners can use the funds to purchase conservation easements on private croplands, rangelands, grasslands, pastures, and even non-industrial private forests.

"This valuable program helps maintain the agricultural viability of the land for future generations," said NRCS Ohio State Conservationist, John Wilson. "Preserving our nation's farmlands is vital for our identity and economy."

The NRCS prioritizes applications that safeguard agricultural uses and related conservation values. They also favor projects that protect large areas of contiguous agricultural land. 

Interested landowners can discuss project eligibility with their local NRCS field office. You can also find more information on ranking criteria and program details on the NRCS website.

For further inquiries, contact Abby McClain at Abigail.Mcclain@usda.gov.